DaysofPal— United Nations experts have called for the immediate release of Palestinian Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, along with all healthcare workers who are arbitrarily detained and abused in Israeli jails amid serious fears for his life.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the experts warned that the continued detention of medical personnel reflects a systematic pattern of targeting the healthcare system in Gaza.
They said such Israeli violations contribute to the ongoing collapse of the healthcare system and create conditions that threaten both the physical and mental well-being of the population.
The experts highlighted that Dr. Abu Safiya has been held without formal charges or trial in violation of international law.
They stated that his detention, along with that of other medical staff and patients, has been carried out under a law referred to as the “unlawful combatants” framework, which they have previously questioned in terms of its compatibility with international humanitarian law and international human rights standards.
According to the statement, United Nations experts have repeatedly raised concerns since October 2023 regarding the targeting and detention of healthcare workers.
They noted that they have engaged in ongoing communications with the Israeli occupation over reports involving arrests and the treatment of medical personnel.
The experts stressed that Israeli violations affecting the protections granted to civilians and healthcare workers under international humanitarian law are extensive.
They also criticized the lack of compliance with United Nations mechanisms and rulings by the International Court of Justice.
The statement further expressed alarm over reports that Dr. Abu Safiya has been subjected to torture and that his health condition has deteriorated.
The experts warned that his injuries may pose an immediate risk to his life and called for urgent access to adequate medical care.
They emphasized that Dr. Abu Safiya’s medical expertise and his role in providing care to vulnerable populations make his continued detention particularly concerning.
Targeting, arresting, or harming healthcare professionals in Israeli jails, they said, constitutes a serious violation that must be addressed without delay.
Shortlink for this post: https://daysofpalestine.ps/?p=76128
